Want to hone your voice this summer? The Guildhall School has expanded its summer programme to include eight new short courses for 2016. Modules cover aural, music and general arts training for all ages and experience levels.
Here’s what’s on offer:
Summer Arts Camp in association with the Barbican
The week-long course delivers courses in areas such as filmmaking, music, performance and tours. Hands-on practical experience will be supported by guidance from practising artists and leaders in these fields. Students will have exclusive access to exhibitions, a private screening in a Barbican cinema and backstage/behind the scenes access to the facilities of one of the world’s leading arts centres and music and drama schools. Ages 11-14 years.
Brass and percussion week
Tailored for musicians ABRSM Grade 3 standard and upwards, the week will covers a breadth of repertoire and will consist of brass band, orchestral sectional and chamber group performances; instrument specific group technique classes; masterclasses with individual support and advice for audition preparation. The finale is a concert for family and friends. Ages 11-18.
Advanced viola and performance health
Led by Guildhall School viola professor and senior tutor of String Chamber Music, Matthew Jones, this three-day course offers the opportunity to study intensively through masterclasses, one-to-one tuition, Alexander Technique, yoga / meditation, practise techniques and performance health. With an informal concert to polish it off, the course also includes an exclusive recital from Jones for participants. Suitable for musicians ABRSM Grade 6 or equivalent, it is especially relevant for those thinking of applying for undergraduate or postgraduate viola programmes. Ages 16+.
Advanced oboe
A two-day course for musicians ABRSM Grade 6 standard and above with workshops on technique, covering everything from posture to articulation; masterclasses on interpreting solo repertoire with one-to-one coaching from tutors; etudes and scales; managing nerves and performance stress, plus reed-making in the Guildhall School’s dedicated Reed Room. Ages 14-19.
Oboe and cor anglais artistry
This artistry course offers the opportunity to be coached by some of the UK’s leading oboe and cor anglais players; senior Guildhall professors Nicholas Daniel, Gordon Hunt, Alison Teale, Fraser MacAulay and Steven Hudson. The course includes training in orchestral excerpts in both a soloist and section setting; masterclasses on solo repertoire; audition skills; competition preparation; instrumental technique; and reed making in the Reed Room. Suitable for oboists considering studying on the Guildhall School’s Orchestral Artistry postgraduate course in association with London Symphony Orchestra, or the Guildhall Artist Masters Advanced Instrumental Studies pathway. Ages 19-25.
Essential aural skills
Led by Guildhall School professor Shelagh Sutherland singers musicians composers can work on their aural skills ahead of exams or for personal development. The course is geared towards acquisition of ABRSM and Trinity Grade 5, including melody, sight singing, harmony, rhythm, mistake spotting, recognition of style/historical period, understanding of form and structure, dynamics, phrasing and articulation. Ages 11+.
Aural skills: beyond grade 5
The course builds on the skills gained on the essential aural skills course and is designed for musicians, singers and composers who want to refine and build upon their more advanced aural knowledge. Students will be taught listening and memorising skills up to and beyond ABRSM and Trinity Grade 8.
Training in classical voice with Janice Chapman and Dr Ron Morris
Led by renowned soprano and singing teacher Janice Chapman, tutors include authors of Chapman’s book, Singing and Teaching Singing: A Holistic Approach to Classical Voice, as well as industry folk from the Royal Opera House and Guildhall School. The five-day intensive course uses fibre-optic and endoscopy technology to enhance understanding of how the voice works, and covers areas including breathing and support, accent method breathing, postural alignment, vocal anatomy and physiology, articulation, mind-skills for performers and artistry and more. Expect body and voice warm-ups, lectures, small practice groups, masterclasses and interactive discussion sessions.
